Tonje Polden Steinsland is a Network Advisor at the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Cooperation (Norec), where she utilises her educational background in economics, marketing, and psychology to cultivate meaningful connections. Over her three years with Norec, she has significantly enhanced knowledge exchange across borders, particularly by establishing a dynamic alumni network comprising more than 1,900 members in over 80 countries. Tonje has successfully organised and facilitated training sessions and events for this network, both virtually and internationally. Drawing on her previous experience in startups, she is passionate about entrepreneurship, which is a key focus area for the Norec Network. Initially part of the communications department, Tonje now works in Knowledge and Learning, where she continues to promote the value of shared expertise. A firm believer in the transformative power of shared knowledge and resources, Tonje is committed to fostering collaboration and driving sustainable development through her work. She is eager to bring her skills and insights to IVCO 2024, where she aims to contribute to the discourse on effective knowledge exchange and cooperation in international development. Her dedication to building connections and empowering individuals underlines her impactful role within Norec and the wider community. Tonje will be presenting on “Unlocking Potential: How Alumni Networks Empower Development” in a How-to Workshop Session during the IVCO 2024 Conference.